three colorful lakes of Abudelauri • one-day hiking

Late September hike

My first hike in Georgia, and I couldn’t have picked a better one. I didn’t have much hiking experience and wanted something challenging, but not too extreme or crowded. Abudelauri Lakes felt like the right choice. Mamuka picked me up early in the morning and we drove into the mountains. The weather forecast had been changing between snow and wind all week, so I really didn’t know what to expect. But by the time we reached the trailhead, it was clear we got lucky. The first part of the trail was easy, then the climb started, and as my first proper hike, I definitely felt it. We took our time, stopped whenever I needed to catch my breath, and also made plenty of stops for photos. I had my GFX with me, so that part was important :) Once we reached the first lake, the hardest part was mostly behind us and the trail became much easier. Seeing the lakes and the mountains around them after the climb made it completely worth it. On the way back we also stopped for some of the best khinkali I had during the trip - perfect ending to the day. Thanks to 11 Regions, and especially Mamuka. He’s an amazing guide: patient, easygoing, and never made the hike feel rushed. Would absolutely recommend this trip.

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A beautiful day in the mountains

We booked this trip to experience the Georgian countryside and mountains during our stay in Tbilisi, and we had indeed a fantastic day. Our guide Guro was hugely experienced and a super nice person, and he ran the trip in a very professional yet relaxed manner. He provided us with deep insights into Georgia's past and present, which added a lot to our overall understanding of the country. I'd say that the hike itself is suitable for everybody with at least a moderate fitness level and a bit of hiking experience. It includes a few short sections that are a little steeper or slightly technical, but most of it is on gentle slopes and wide, smooth paths. The views were absolutely breathtaking and a generous reward for the very manageable effort. We met maybe ten other groups during our hike, and they ranged from groups with apparently moderate fitness steadily making their way to the most scenic viewpoints to experienced mountaineers on their long trek across the Caucasus. Here are some data from our trip: - Drive: 2-2.5 hrs (one way). This depends on traffic, but it is well worth it in its own right, especially if you would otherwise only stay in Tbilisi. - Hike: 3 hrs of actual hiking; a total of 4 hrs on the trail including breaks for marvelling at the views, snacks, chatting etc. I understand from Guro that most groups spend normally around 6-7 hrs on the trail with him, but we didn't feel at all that we rushed it. We just needed to be back in the afternoon, and Guro was happy to accommodate this. - A hike of 10.3 km; min elevation 2350 m, max 2850 m; total elevation gain 570 m. Variations are possible, but if you want to see all three lakes, that's probably the shortest loop. We had excellent weather conditions, and we only needed some very basic hiking kit. A sturdy pair of trainers and sunscreen would probably have been enough. After we had booked the trip, Guro sent us a very detailed and helpful message that listed what was required. It was an all-round perfect trip for us, and I very much recommend it to everybody who wants to see the Georgian mountains and doesn't struggle hiking for a few hours.

Response from the operator: Thank you very much for taking the time to share such a thoughtful and detailed review. We’re delighted to know that you enjoyed both the mountain experience and the stories and insights Guro shared throughout the day. I’ll be sure to pass your kind words on to Guro — they will mean a lot to him. We also truly appreciate the practical details you included about the hike, which will certainly be helpful to future guests. It was a pleasure having you with us, and we hope to welcome you back to Georgia for another adventure in the future. Warm regards, Giga 11 Regions

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Awesome and very scenic Hiking Experience

The trek was amazing. A really must to do. Very scenic. Over trek coordinator Giga was very helpful and so was our trek leader Guro. A must to do hike. Highly recommend.

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Incredible experience!!

It’s was easily the best tour I’ve ever been on, Giorgi was fantastic. Super knowledgeable, friendly and understanding. The scenery was absolutely incredible, this is a must do if you’re in Georgia.

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Very rewarding hike in Georgian natures

Knowing that this review could make a difference to future travellers, I try to leave candid comments. I was contacted by Giga the tour operator after my initial booking for another hiking tour got cancelled. He offered me this Abudelauri tour as an alternative at a comparable rate and I was glad that I took it with no regrets. This tour stood out from the rest because it advertised for hiking in the mountains with a pro and was organised as a private tour. Indeed it felt exclusive and there were just me and 2 other guests with the guide Giorgi in the end. To accomplish this hike you have to have some strength and courage to climb to the top, as well as some basic gears like a good pair of hiking boots with good grip of the ground and slippery rocks/snow. Giorgi is a fantastic guide who could be daunting at first with his mountain ranger appearance but soon disarms you with his welcoming attitude and thorough explanation of the itinerary. He asked each of us for our hiking experience and expectations then made sure we packed all the essentials before we started. Along the way, he showed us beautiful sceneries and cared for our safety by showing us which spots to step on the slippery slopes and thick coats of fallen snow. I felt encouraged even though I ain’t very fit but still managed to cover all 3 of the Abudelauri lakes in good time and get up close with the heads of the Chaukhi mountains! I would do it again if I next visit Georgia though I would move this tour to the beginning of my trip before it gets too tiring from sightseeing in the city. A good spirit and moderate physique is required but I felt rewarded after this hike. If you encounter Georgi as your guide, consider yourself lucky!

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